juncture
junc.ture \'j*n(k)-ch*r\ n 1: an instance of joining : UNION 2a: JOINT, CONNECTION 2b: the manner of transition or mode of relationship between two consecutiv e sounds in speech 3: a point of time; esp : one made critical by a concurrence of cir cumstancesINGENCY, PINCH, STRAITS, CRISIS mean a critical or crucial time or state of affairs. JUNCTURE stresses the significant concurrence or convergence of events; PASS implies a bad or distressing state or situation brought about by a combination of causes; EXIGENCY stresses the pressure of restrictions or urgency of demands created by a special situation; EMERGENCY applies to a sudden unforeseen situation requiring prompt action to avoid disaster; CONTINGENCY implies an emergency or exigency that is regarded as possible or even probable but uncertain of occurrence; PINCH implies urgency or pressure for action to a less intense degree than EXIGENCY or EMERGENCY; STRAITS applies to a troublesome situation from which escape is extremely difficult; CRISIS applies to a juncture whose outcome will make a decisive difference SYN syn JUNCTURE, PASS, EXIGENCY, EMERGENCY, CONT
Webster's English Dictionary